Cycling SA has today announced a new major sponsor for its flagship Elite Teams Cycling Series, in a partnership that will have significant benefits for cycling and the development of vibrant, walkable and healthy communities close to the city.

”We are very excited to announce that the 2012/2013 series will be known as the Bowden Elite Teams Series,” said President of Cycling SA, Graeme Moffett.

“The partnership between Cycling SA and the Bowden project is a great fit.

“Both stand for socially vibrant and sustainable environments with strong linkages to health, well-being and active lifestyles.”

Minister for Transport and Infrastructure Patrick Conlon said as South Australia’s first large-scale higher density urban development, Bowden will provide a fresh approach to residential living and promote cycling, walking and public transport as an alternative to private cars.

“Our aim is to make every community, starting with Bowden, more pedestrian and bike friendly with retail and public transport within walking and riding distance, so it makes great sense to support Cycling SA,” he said.

“Bowden’s shared streets and proximity to the city and linear park provide a head start towards a healthier and more sustainable community through cycling.

“The Urban Renewal Authority’s sponsorship of the Elite Teams Series will help highlight the benefits of cycling for everyone as well as supporting some great local cycling talent.”

Building on the success of the 2012 series, the Bowden Elite Teams Series for 2012/13 will bring an elite field of SA’s best domestic riders to compete over a 14 round series. The series will be hotly contested with Olympic Gold Medalist Brett Aiken keen to defend his title and recently crowned Junior Australian National Road champion Robert McCarthy looking to impress.

The Bowden Elite Teams Series will feature up to 14 Rounds of action-packed bike racing comprising criteriums, road races, a team time trial, an individual time trial and two Rounds held during the week of the Santos Tour Down Under.

Bowden is also sponsoring the recreational team series ‘The Bowden Cyclo Sportif’ which will see hundreds of South Australians of all abilities enjoying six rides through summer in great South Australian locations.

The Urban Renewal Authority’s Bowden development project spans 16 hectares right on the edge of the CBD. More than 2,400 homes will ultimately be built on the site, as well as business opportunities, with approximately 3,500 new residents expected to move in over 15 years.The redevelopment of Bowden will be one of the most significant urban developments in South Australia’s history and will bring to life a former industrial precinct in a way never before seen in Adelaide.